Organic and non-GMO trends

What does it take to meet increasing consumer demand for non-GMO foods & beverages?

By Elizabeth Crawford

- Last updated on GMT

What does it take to meet consumer demand for non-GMO foods beverages

Related tags Marketing Genetically modified organism Whole foods market

Four out of 10 consumers claim to be avoiding or reducing genetically modified foods in their daily diets, mainly because they are concerned about the possible impact of GMOs on their health and well-being, according to The Hartman Group’s Organic & Natural 2014 report. 

Many manufacturers are responding by labeling when products do not contain GMOs, and those that do not label their products one way or the other are at risk of losing consumer trust, the report suggests.

But what does it take to become non-GMO certified and when is it and is it not appropriate to bear a non-GMO seal?

To find out, we have gathered a panel of experts who can help companies decide if going non-GMO is right for their brands. During our free​, online 60 minute FoodNavigator-USA Going Non-GMO Forum​ May 20​, we also will explore: 

  • The market potential for non-GMO foods and beverages,​ including the opportunities and challenges for growth, how to maximize the impact of a non-GMO claim and how the claim compares to natural and organic;
  • The current legislative landscape for labeling GMO foods,​ including an update on state and national bills related to voluntary and mandatory labeling, and how these bills could impact firms if passed into law;
  • How to navigate the process of becoming non-GMO certified,​ including supply chain management, storage and validation requirements.

During the last 15 minutes of the discussion, which is sponsored by Farbest Brands​ and Ingredion​, listeners also will have a chance to ask questions of our expert panel, which includes:

Courtney Pineau – Associate director, Non-GMO Project

Passionate about food, sustainability and community outreach since childhood, Pineau is dedicated to helping create a future where consumers can make informed food decisions by welcoming all stakeholders to the conversation about GMOs.

Steven Hoffman – Managing director, Compass Natural LLC

With more than 30 years of experience in the sustainable food and agriculture sectors, Hoffman is well positioned at his full service marketing and business development agency to support natural, organic and sustainable businesses as they navigate high-profile issues such as going non-GMO. He also has served on the front lines of the legislative battle for labeling GMO products, serving as a lead fundraiser for GMO labeling ballot initiatives, including California’s Prop 37 in 2012, Washington State’s I-522 in 2013 and Prop 105 in Colorado in 2014.

Maryellen Molyneaux – Managing Partner, NMI

Maryellen Molyneaux has more than 35 years of health, wellness and sustainability marketing experience. Her range of business experience includes retail and corporate management, international consulting, business start-ups, consumer packaged goods marketing and market research management. Maryellen's expertise includes strategic consulting, new product development, qualitative and quantitative trade and consumer research, and market research for mergers and acquisitions.

Tim Sperry – founder, The Tim Sperry Group

With 20 years of experience in purchasing leadership at Whole Foods Market and nearly 10 years as a consultant, Sperry is well equipped to help natural, organic and specialty companies navigate the non-GMO and gluten-free verification processes, including ingredient sourcing support. He also can help companies enter the U.S. market, build brands and strategize about sales.

Registration is free and easy, simply click HERE​.

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1 comment

Vermont Act 120 law adoption

Posted by Kate,

would be great if you could touch on the VT Act 120 adoption during this webinar and how that might effect vendors who sell to VT

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